There’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch of golden chicken fresh out of the fryer—but what if you could enjoy that same satisfying crisp without all the oil? Enter the Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe—juicy chicken coated with a savory, cheesy crust that’s both delicious and lighter than traditional fried chicken.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a meal that feels special yet simple.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 | ~320 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer basket)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
- Mix dry coating. In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the chicken. Beat eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat fully in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Arrange in the basket. Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd—cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry. Cook for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside.
- Serve hot. Let rest for a couple of minutes, then slice and enjoy that crunchy, cheesy coating!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Even cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent results.
- Extra crispy tip: Lightly mist the coated chicken with olive oil spray before air frying.
- Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Low-carb version: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Cheese lover’s option: Mix in a little shredded mozzarella with the Parmesan for extra gooeyness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp garden salad and lemon wedges for a lighter dinner.
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a hearty family meal.
- Slice leftovers and layer into sandwiches or wraps for an easy next-day lunch.
Conclusion
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken proves that comfort food can be both simple and satisfying. With its golden, crunchy crust and juicy center, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this is one dish you’ll want to make again and again.